Post by : Shakul
Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) has rolled out an initiative to introduce 186 supplementary train services aimed at addressing the anticipated surge in passenger numbers during the Hari Raya Aidiladha festivities and the forthcoming school holidays in Malaysia. These enhanced train operations are set to occur from May 22 to June 7, 2026, encompassing key routes nationwide.
As stated by KTMB, these enhancements will include both Electric Train Service (ETS) and EMU Plus trains. The initiative is projected to supply an additional 58,380 seats for travelers during this peak travel season. Passengers can start booking tickets from May 9 through KTMB’s official website, the KITS Style mobile app, and designated ticket kiosks at various railway stations.
The railway operator mentioned that routes with the highest demand, particularly those linking Kuala Lumpur to both northern and southern parts of Malaysia, will see the most significant boosts in service. Specifically, the KL Sentral to Padang Besar route will provide over 15,700 extra tickets for certain travel days in May and June. Additionally, well-frequented routes such as KL Sentral to Butterworth and KL Sentral to Ipoh will also benefit from thousands of newly available seats.
Expanding services for the KL Sentral to Johor Bahru route, known as one of the busiest intercity rail connections during festive times, KTMB plans to offer almost 19,000 additional tickets for travel from May 22 to June 7. Furthermore, extra EMU Plus services will be introduced between Klang and Ipoh on selected holiday dates to facilitate passenger flow across the western part of Peninsular Malaysia.
Datuk Azlan Shah Al Bakri, KTMB Group Chief Executive Officer, emphasized that this decision to augment train services was driven by a strong public demand observed during prior festive occasions such as Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri. He noted a consistent upward trend in passenger numbers, particularly for routes associated with Johor Bahru and northern Malaysia.
In addition to the increased ETS and EMU services, KTMB reported positive ticket sales for the special Ekspres Lambaian Aidiladha train that connects Kuala Lumpur with the East Coast. Following its announcement in April, almost half of the tickets for this service are already sold out.
KTMB is also giving promotional discounts on select East Coast train services. Travelers on the ELA 1029 route from Tumpat to KL Sentral can enjoy a 30% discount on Superior Seater fares starting May 11, with prices dropping to RM56 from the regular RM80 fare, and limited availability.
Transportation specialists believe that enhancing train services can alleviate highway congestion during the festive period while promoting safer travel for countless passengers. KTMB officials recommend early ticket bookings as high demand is expected throughout the holiday season.
English
